ignition

Coil Pack

for 2012 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG 6.0L V12 BiTurbo M275 · RWD

Difficulty

Moderate

Time

1.1 h

Tools

Steps

✓Fact-checked. Built from OLP's spec database, then independently fact-checked line by line with every correction applied. Master-tech sign-off by Chris Hackleman is queued. Cross-check torque values against the factory manual, and stop if anything looks unsafe. How our data is made.

Replace ignition coil packs on the M275 6.0L V12 BiTurbo engine. This procedure covers removal and installation of individual coil packs with spark plug access.

Warnings

⚠️Allow engine to cool completely before beginning work. Ignition coils and surrounding components can retain heat for over an hour after engine shutdown.

⚠Disconnect battery negative terminal before removing ignition coils to prevent accidental ignition system activation or ECU damage.

⚠V12 engines have limited access in the valley between cylinder banks. Work carefully to avoid dropping tools or fasteners into the engine bay.

ℹ️The M275 engine has individual coil-on-plug design with 12 separate ignition coils. Replace coils one at a time to avoid misidentifying cylinder positions.

Tools required

10mm socket and ratchetEssential

Torque wrench (5-50 Nm range)Essential

Spark plug socket (14mm or 16mm depending on plug type)Essential

Extension bars (3-inch and 6-inch)Essential

Anti-seize compoundEssential

Dielectric grease

Compressed air or vacuum

Magnetic pickup tool

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Parts

Ignition coil pack × 12 — Use OEM specification Mercedes-Benz 0001587803 or equivalent
Spark plugs (if replacing) × 12 — NGK or Bosch as specified by Mercedes

As an Amazon Associate and Autel/ANCEL partner, OLP earns from qualifying purchases — how we link. This never changes the specs we publish.

Preparation

Ensure engine is completely cool to the touch
Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait 5 minutes for system discharge
Remove engine cover by lifting upward on front edge and pulling forward to release rear mounting grommets
Identify which cylinder(s) require coil pack replacement based on diagnostic trouble codes or replace all 12 as preventive maintenance
Clean area around ignition coils with compressed air to prevent debris from entering cylinders
Label ignition coil connectors with cylinder numbers if replacing multiple coils

Procedure

1
Disconnect ignition coil electrical connector
Press the locking tab on the ignition coil electrical connector and pull straight up to disconnect. On the M275 engine, connectors may be stiff due to heat cycling. Wiggle gently while pulling if necessary. Do not pull on wires.
2
Remove ignition coil mounting bolt
Using a 10mm socket, remove the single bolt securing the ignition coil to the valve cover. Keep the bolt in a safe location as they are specific to this application.
3
Extract ignition coil from cylinder head
Grasp the ignition coil body firmly and pull straight upward with steady force. The coil may be seated tightly in the spark plug well due to heat cycling and rubber boot seal. Twist gently while pulling if resistance is felt. Avoid rocking side-to-side which can damage the coil boot.
4
Inspect spark plug well and boot condition
Examine the spark plug well for oil accumulation, carbon deposits, or debris. Use compressed air or vacuum to clean the well before proceeding. Inspect the rubber boot on the old coil for cracks, oil saturation, or deterioration. Oil in the plug well indicates a valve cover gasket leak that should be addressed.
5
Remove spark plug (if replacing or inspecting)
If replacing spark plugs or inspecting for diagnosis, use a spark plug socket with extension to remove the plug. Turn counterclockwise carefully to avoid cross-threading in the aluminum cylinder head. Inspect plug condition for fouling, wear, or incorrect gap.
⚠Aluminum cylinder heads are easily damaged by cross-threading. Ensure spark plug socket is fully seated and aligned before applying force.
6
Install new spark plug (if replacing)
Apply a small amount of anti-seize compound to the spark plug threads, avoiding the electrode end. Thread the spark plug by hand into the cylinder head until finger-tight to ensure proper alignment. Use the spark plug socket and torque wrench to tighten to specification. Do not over-torque as this can damage the aluminum threads.
7
Prepare new ignition coil for installation
Inspect the new ignition coil boot for any damage. Apply a thin coat of dielectric grease to the inside of the coil boot and around the spark plug terminal to prevent moisture intrusion and ensure proper connection. Verify the coil part number matches the original.
8
Install new ignition coil
Align the ignition coil with the spark plug well and press down firmly until the coil seats completely on the spark plug terminal. The coil should sit flush with the valve cover mounting surface. You should feel the boot make contact with the spark plug terminal.
9
Install ignition coil mounting bolt
Thread the ignition coil mounting bolt by hand to ensure proper alignment, then tighten to specification using a torque wrench. Do not over-torque as the valve cover is plastic composite material that can crack.
10
Reconnect electrical connector
Push the electrical connector onto the ignition coil terminal until the locking tab clicks into place. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is fully seated and locked.
11
Repeat for remaining cylinders
If replacing multiple coils, repeat steps 1-10 for each cylinder. Work systematically from one bank to the other to avoid confusion. The V12 has 6 cylinders per bank, accessible from each side of the engine.

Reassembly

Reinstall engine cover by aligning rear mounting grommets first, then pressing down on front edge until secure
Reconnect battery negative terminal
Clear any diagnostic trouble codes using a scan tool if codes were present before the repair

Verification

Start the engine and verify smooth idle with no misfires or rough running
Check for any diagnostic trouble codes related to ignition system using a scan tool
Perform a test drive and verify normal acceleration and engine performance under load
Visually inspect all ignition coil connectors are fully seated and secure
Listen for any abnormal engine noises or misfires during idle and acceleration
If all 12 coils were replaced as preventive maintenance, monitor for consistent performance across all cylinders

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